Beirut vs. Istanbul?
 

Greetings, fellow FTers. I have a choice this fall of running a marathon in either Beirut or Istanbul -- as it happens both races are on Nov. 11. I've never been to either city (or respective country), and I'd love to hear suggestions on which to choose.

Key factors for me are the natural and architectural beauty of the city, intriguing history and the friendliness of locals. Great local cuisine is also a big plus.

Any thoughts? Thanks for your time.

Both are great cities with a lot to see. I think that a marathon would be much more picturesque in Istanbul. The views along the Bosphorous are gorgeous (although more so in spring and summer), and I would assume that the marathon would travel through the old city with many architectural marvels.

The food is better in Beirut, in my opinion, and the people maybe slightly better. If I had to choose only one for a leisure trip, it would be difficult. For the first-time visitor, I would see that there is more to see and do in Istanbul, though if your motivation is food and nightlife, then Beirut would be a better choice.

Thanks so much for the thoughts, mecabq. Looks like I'd be happy either way.

If you're curious, here are the course maps:

http://www.istanbulmarathon.org/mara...on/course.aspx

http://www.beirutmarathon.org/wp-con...rathon_map.pdf

I don't think that the Istanbul course could possibly be any more scenic than it already is. Your time isn't going to be a record breaker since it will be impossible to stop looking at all the views!

Hmmmm... Beirut might just end up changing the date given that Istanbul is holding its marathon on the 11th as well. Keep checking the Beirut International Marathon page online for updates...

[QUOTE=dhuey;18245759]Greetings, fellow FTers. I have a choice this fall of running a marathon in either Beirut or Istanbul -- as it happens both races a

I would definitely go for Istanbul. It has such marvels you sure will find something for you...

Been to both cities, would recommend Istanbul. BTW, the bridge is closed to pedestrian traffic expect during the Istanbul marathon.

Completely agree with mecabq about the food being better in Beirut, but I think Istanbul has the edge on historic sights. Much of Beirut was destroyed during the civil war, Lebanon does have historic sights of interest but those are a day trip from Beirut.

Interesting comments, and this, of course, is way after the fact, but I loved Beirut way more than Istanbul. The nightlife is far more fun, and there's much less hustle in Beirut.